A recent thesis from the University of Gothenburg highlights that many cases of cardiac arrest during sports could be prevented. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of improving emergency responses, particularly through cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillator use, within sports settings.
In Sweden, ambulance services report around 6,000 cases of sudden cardiac arrest annually, most of which occur at home or work. Of these, approximately 400 cases happen during sports activities.
Matilda Frisk Torell, a cardiologist and PhD student at Sahlgrenska Academy, examined the effectiveness of emergency assistance and the survival outcomes for individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest during sports. Her research found that survival rates were significantly higher for those who suffered cardiac arrest in sports settings, especially within sports facilities. For those who collapsed at such facilities, the 30-day survival rate was 56%, compared to just 12% for those who experienced cardiac arrest outside of a hospital setting.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Frisk Torell’s study also highlighted a concerning delay in defibrillator use. Early CPR and defibrillation with an automated external defibrillator (AED) are critical for survival. However, the research revealed that it often took at least 10 minutes before an AED was used in sports settings. Despite 73% of athletes suffering from ventricular fibrillation, a condition that requires immediate defibrillation to prevent death, only 14% of athletes under 35 had access to a public defibrillator before paramedics arrived.
Gender Differences in Survival Rates
The research also pointed out a gender gap in survival rates. While women represented only 9% of the cases of sports-related cardiac arrest, they had a lower survival rate. Only 30% of women survived 30 days after the event, compared to nearly 50% of men.
Frisk Torell explained that women often exercise in environments with fewer people around, which may contribute to delayed CPR. The study also showed that CPR was started significantly later for women, suggesting a need for better recognition of cardiac arrests in women and more confidence in performing CPR. Further studies are needed to understand how women participate in sports and the possible differences in the underlying causes of cardiac arrest.
Screening for Young Athletes
In young athletes, sudden cardiac arrest due to arrhythmias was often preceded by symptoms such as fainting or seizures. The study found that half of these athletes had noticeable symptoms before the event, and 20% had ECG changes.
Frisk Torell advocates for screening young athletes, particularly those involved in elite sports, to detect underlying cardiac conditions. She suggests that an ECG could help identify individuals at higher risk for sudden cardiac arrest, allowing them to receive guidance on their sports participation and potential treatments.
In conclusion, Frisk Torell emphasizes that early recognition and intervention are key to improving survival outcomes for athletes who suffer sudden cardiac arrest.
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